Simple sheets of paper continue to inspire Calvin Nicholls in the studio. Scores, folds and various “tooling” techniques combine to create surprising illusions of dimensionality even in a very shallow working depth. Harnessing light to define texture and form in his wildlife paper sculptures rewards his efforts as he pursues these intersecting lifelong passions.
Against the Cold, 100% cotton paper by Strathmore, 15 x 18"
“Whether embracing the elegance of white-on-white or energizing the layout with vivid contrast, the goal remains the same,” Nicholls says. “Employing the world’s finest papers to create as much interest as possible in the medium while exploiting the subtle transformation from soft highlight to deep shadow rewards me for every hour at the art table. My inventory of completed sculptures is always low due to the great joy I share in conversations with collectors eager to capture an exhilarating moment or favored species. Working with researchers and field experts makes the process of developing sketches even more intriguing.”
He continues: “So, in my mind, although paper has been 2,000 years in the making, it never gets old.”
Grizzly (Grizz…), 100% cotton paper by Strathmore, mounted in paper background, 24 x 36"
Grizzly (Grizz…), graphite on board
Nicholls has been a member of the Society of Animal Artists since 1996 and Artists for Conservation since 2000. He will be showing at the Society of Animal Artists 62nd Annual Exhibition from September 24 through January 1, 2023, at Turtle Bay Exploration Park in Redding, California. He will also be showing his work at the Algonquin Art Centre in Ontario, Canada, from June 1 through October 16. —
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